An exemplary captain and key player for US Gorée, Ousmane Mbengue is enjoying a dazzling start to the season. Having already scored two goals and provided seven assists last season, the island striker is well on his way to shattering his own records. His three free-kick goals, scored in the last two matches against Dakar Sacré-Cœur (4-0) and Linguère (0-2), have particularly caught the eye of Senegalese Ligue 1 fans. A formidable free-kick specialist, the left-footed Gorée native has agreed to reveal the secret to his effectiveness in this area, a hallmark of great players.

“My secret is hard work. After training, I stay on the pitch to practice free kicks. I think that to truly master set pieces, you have to repeat the same movement over and over again. Technique, patience, and precision are essential. Against Linguère, before shooting, I took a few seconds to concentrate. Many rush, others shoot without any preparation. To succeed, you have to work incredibly hard,” confided the US Gorée captain.

"Gorée is my home."

A true figure of the island club, Ousmane Mbengue believes he owes most of his career to US Gorée, with whom he has scored more than 70 goals in all competitions.

“I owe everything to US Gorée. President Augustin Senghor is like a father to me. When I left Yeggo in 2010, Gorée placed their trust in me even though I came from the Navétane championship. This mark of trust is engraved in me. Gorée is my home,” says the striker.

Regarding his statistics, the captain explains: "Here in Senegal, we don't follow local football statistics closely enough, but I've scored over 60 goals with Gorée. As for assists, I've lost count."

Longevity due to a strict lifestyle

Having played in the Tunisian and Ethiopian championships, Ousmane Mbengue attributes his longevity to his daily discipline.

“I hardly ever go out and I train very seriously. I was lucky enough to get married very early. After training sessions, I go straight home. My wife helps me enormously, and that plays a big part in my career,” he explains.

With such determination and remarkable consistency, Ousmane Mbengue has established himself more than ever as one of the key players at the start of this season. And given his current form, US Gorée's season could very well be one of great ambition.